Bachelor of Social Science

Make a positive difference

The scientific study of human society and social relationships can be used to solve some of the world’s biggest issues. Often misunderstood, the study of social sciences is invaluable as it helps to improve societies of tomorrow. Drawing upon multiple perspectives and disciplines, The Bachelor of Social Science at Bond requires students to look beyond preconceptions and equip themselves to promote change in society. Start the first chapter of your Social Science career and graduate sooner with Bond’s accelerated degrees.

Want to experience Criminology at Bond?

What is it that makes a good person turn to crime? Find out what goes on inside a criminal mind and gain an insight into human society and criminal justice by taking part in our Criminology Experience Day. There truly is no better way for you to find your passion than to experience it for yourself. Attending an Experience Day allows you to come along to the Bond University campus and trial programs we have on offer. This event is complimentary for Year 10, 11 and 12 students, and one parent.

Pathway to Criminology

Are you looking for a challenging and rewarding career in Criminology? Hear from one of our professors, a current student and successful graduate on how the Bond advantage will help you stand out and secure your dream job!

Undertake studies in cognate disciplines

The Bachelor of Social Science allows students to undertake two majors or a double major in complimentary disciplines. Students are encouraged to explore the impact of Behaviour Management, Counselling, Criminology and Psychology on society. The multi-disciplinary approach equips graduates with a broad foundation of knowledge applicable to a number of career paths. Students in the Bachelor of Social Science have the opportunity to partake in for-credit internships or work experience. Bond’s dedicated Career Development Centre can assist students in finding an internship and work experience, allowing them to further develop their skill set. Students will also be able to find mentors that are interested in and influential to their career ambitions.

Combined Degree Options

"At Bond University, I studied a Bachelor of Social Science/ Bachelor of Laws. The reason for choosing to undertake a double degree in Law and Social Sciences, majoring in Criminology, was to pursue studies tailored towards understanding the way in which our criminal justice system functions from both a theoretically and practical perspective. I was curious to learn about the law (in particular criminal law) and its effect on society and those it targets from a criminological perspective. Combining a Bachelor of Laws with a Bachelor of Social Sciences from Bond University was the perfect combination to achieve this. Show more

"At Bond University, I studied a Bachelor of Social Science/ Bachelor of Laws. The reason for choosing to undertake a double degree in Law and Social Sciences, majoring in Criminology, was to pursue studies tailored towards understanding the way in which our criminal justice system functions from both a theoretically and practical perspective. I was curious to learn about the law (in particular criminal law) and its effect on society and those it targets from a criminological perspective. Combining a Bachelor of Laws with a Bachelor of Social Sciences from Bond University was the perfect combination to achieve this.

The reasons why I decided to study at Bond was primarily because it combined both practical and theoretical components of learning, professors/ teaching staff were not only academics but also had relevant industry experience and Bond afforded the opportunity to complete two degrees in the time it would usually take to complete one. What I liked best about Bond University was the array of opportunities it provided. Not only were there academic opportunities, such as co-authoring articles with professors, there were also varied extra-curricular opportunities such as, being a part of student body groups, international moot court teams, participating in overseas charity work and studying abroad. I was lucky enough to take part in all of these activities, which enriched my time at university and prepared me for a career in law and criminological research.

I currently work as an Associate at Edmonds Marshall McMahon LLP, a specialist private prosecution law firm in the United Kingdom. I am also a Research Associate at the White Collar Crime Centre United Kingdom. Prior to commencing my role as an Associate at Edmonds Marshall McMahon and Research Associate at the White Collar Crime Centre, I completed a Master of Philosophy in Criminological Research at the University of Cambridge. I believe studying a Bachelor of Social Sciences/ Bachelor of Laws at Bond University provided me with the necessary foundations to successfully complete this research degree and to pursue my current employment and research positions." Show less

"I chose to study at Bond University because I found a degree that suited my career interests and because of Bond's reputation for providing the highest quality education, small class sizes and the opportunity to complete my degree faster than anywhere else. I decided to study criminology and behaviour management because it is a field I have always been interested in and believed it would provide career opportunities in an industry that would be challenging yet rewarding. Show more

"I chose to study at Bond University because I found a degree that suited my career interests and because of Bond's reputation for providing the highest quality education, small class sizes and the opportunity to complete my degree faster than anywhere else. I decided to study criminology and behaviour management because it is a field I have always been interested in and believed it would provide career opportunities in an industry that would be challenging yet rewarding.

I am currently employed by Queensland Corrective Services, in an Acting Senior Case Management Position. I have been employed there since March 2015.

In my position I have a case load of high risk offenders which I manage. I supervise these offenders and assist them in a number or different ways, such as referring them to external agencies and addressing their identified needs. Other responsibilities include assessing risk on a day to day basis, writing reports within a timely manner and keeping detailed case notes following each interaction.

Bond has helped me to fulfil these responsibilities by preparing me for this role. My degree taught me a lot about the criminology industry and my lecturers were integral to the successful completion of my studies, providing invaluable advice and guidance throughout.

I enjoyed my experience at Bond University immensely. As criminology was an area I was so interested in, I gained so much more from my studies, and it was evident my lecturers were also passionate about what they were teaching. Through my internship organised by Bond, I was able to secure employment in my current position, which was the ideal outcome. I would happily recommend Bond to anyone considering study.

Bond University's criminology department is highly regarded in Australia and my lecturers really motivated me to do my best, providing me with excellent support. I believe Bond's criminology degree can best prepare anyone for a career within the criminology industry." Show less

"I studied a Bachelor of Social Science, majoring in Criminology at Bond University. I came to Bond as an International Student and upon graduation returned to Sweden to undertake full time work. I have since worked in a maximum-security prison in Sweden, mainly rehabilitating inmates. Recently, I secured a new job as a crime investigator for the Swedish police in Örebro. In my role, I specialise in theft and narcotics, and love it! I feel that I am doing something I am good at. Show more

"I studied a Bachelor of Social Science, majoring in Criminology at Bond University. I came to Bond as an International Student and upon graduation returned to Sweden to undertake full time work. I have since worked in a maximum-security prison in Sweden, mainly rehabilitating inmates. Recently, I secured a new job as a crime investigator for the Swedish police in Örebro. In my role, I specialise in theft and narcotics, and love it! I feel that I am doing something I am good at.

My time at Bond, specifically my Criminology classes taught me everything I know. I am extremely grateful for my Professors who took the time to teach and mentor me. Throughout my first semester at Bond, I undertook the subject 'Australian Criminal Justice System’, and I clearly remember the classroom discussions and the way my Professor encouraged us to explore cases and topics related to that weeks’ reading. I am also pleased to say, during my time in that class – I met another student, who later became my flat mate and my best friend. To this day, 10 years later, we are still best friends despite living in different countries.

My Professors played an important role in my life as a student at Bond, and I am extremely grateful. They taught me so many important and valuable things that I have great use for today as an individual and professional." Show less

"I decided to study at Bond University as I was aware of the universities high reputation. What I enjoyed best about studying at Bond was a combination of three elements including the short travel distance from home, the accelerated process of the degree and the quality of teaching provided along with the student support offered from each lecturer, tutor and staff member. Show more

"I decided to study at Bond University as I was aware of the universities high reputation. What I enjoyed best about studying at Bond was a combination of three elements including the short travel distance from home, the accelerated process of the degree and the quality of teaching provided along with the student support offered from each lecturer, tutor and staff member.

My Bond experience was one that I will treasure for the years to come. The various study facilities provided both the environment to complete work without distractions and the flexible hours to study in peace until the early hours of the morning. The student:staff ratio, consisting of small classes, allowed my cohort of 10 students to develop a strong bond. This resulted in both social and academic benefits, where we were able to assist each other throughout the year when needed. The open-door policy of the university allowed the opportunity to be mentored by lecturers and tutors on a weekly basis. I would highly recommend taking advantage of this student support provided by the academic staff as I believe I would not have been offered my current position without it.

Although I have only studied at Bond until recently, I believe there is a difference between studying at Bond compared to other universities. Firstly, the facilities provided, the teaching quality and the student support at Bond University facilitate achieving academic success to allow students to obtain their career goals. Secondly, the networking opportunities and prestigious contacts available at Bond University further assist students to utilise their experience at Bond to fulfil their potential in their chosen industry. Finally, the culture produced from both the students and the academic staff at Bond create an environment that is enjoyable and supportive throughout the various challenges presented during the completion of a degree.

I would definitely recommend studying at Bond for multiple reasons that I will reiterate. The small class sizes encourage student engagement. The accelerated degree process allows for career opportunities. The open-door policy includes mentoring by academic staff to achieve academic success. The various facilities at the university provide academic, social and health benefits. The work experience offered by the university as an addition to your degree or as a component of your degree place students at an advantage when applying for work and the networking opportunities available to students are beneficial for future career opportunities." Show less

Mark Anderson (Bachelor of Social Science Alumnus)Homes North Community Housing

"I studied a Bachelor of Social Science at Bond, majoring in Criminology. I was lucky enough to have completed an undergraduate thesis during this program, as an elective, which has helped me progress in the job industry. I changed degrees in 2011 from Biomedical Science to Criminology and I have had zero regrets. I wanted to learn something new, something I hadn't done before. After only a week, I fell in love with the field and wanted to learn everything I could. I made good use of my electives, studying classes varying from law to psychology. Bond had no issues swapping my major and did so in a promptly manner; I’m very grateful that they allowed me the opportunity to discover a new chapter in my life. Show more

"I studied a Bachelor of Social Science at Bond, majoring in Criminology. I was lucky enough to have completed an undergraduate thesis during this program, as an elective, which has helped me progress in the job industry. I changed degrees in 2011 from Biomedical Science to Criminology and I have had zero regrets. I wanted to learn something new, something I hadn't done before. After only a week, I fell in love with the field and wanted to learn everything I could. I made good use of my electives, studying classes varying from law to psychology. Bond had no issues swapping my major and did so in a promptly manner; I’m very grateful that they allowed me the opportunity to discover a new chapter in my life.

I currently work as a Corrective Counsellor in Queensland Corrective Services at Wolston Correctional Centre. My main responsibilities are to follow up with prisoners when they request a psychologist/counsellor, interviewing new receptions coming into the Prison who have a history of self-harm and/or suicide, and to case manage prisoners who are subject to DPSOA’s (Dangerous Prisoner Sexual Offender Act).

During my initial interview in Warwick, the representative spoke so highly of the University. My friend and I both applied and when we returned home we researched all we could about Bond. The amount of activities, facilities that Bond has to offer and the fact that they have real world lecturers, who work in their respective fields, is what influenced my decision. After I arrived at Bond I was not disappointed with my experience there!

Bond certainly stood out for me. When I changed degrees, I could have gone to another University; however, I stayed at Bond. The connections that I made here I didn’t want to give up, and the fact that it’s a great University. Not only did I make connections with other students and guest lecturers, but also with the Bond lecturers, who I am still connected with to this day. They’re not only lecturers but they treat you like a friend, and that’s the reason I stayed, it felt welcoming. The programs at Bond also stood out because they are fast-tracked. I wanted to go straight into University, then to work and Bond allowed me to do a 4 year program in 2 years without a heavy workload; this then allowed me to pursue a career in my field earlier than I expected.

At the risk of sounding cheesy, I loved everything about Bond! I stepped out and experienced all I possibly could, from, the plentiful parties, group gym classes, functions, club activities, open day, general activities run by BUSA (Bond University Student Association), the academics, sports teams, and heaps more. You can’t say that Bond is boring, there is something there for everyone; and the food is pretty good too!

My experience at Bond was nothing short of amazing. I was living on campus for a year before moving off, which was probably the best thing to do so that I could adjust to the lifestyle. BUSA do their best to provide great functions, and activities to attend, and I would highly recommend, at least once in your time at Bond, to attend a party and make connections. The friends I made there are truly friends for life; I still talk to everyone including overseas students from Norway, France and America. I made connections with a few of the lecturers at Bond who were invaluable to my experience. Having the real-world lecturers also helped a lot as, with their experience, they could answer questions about what the field entails and what careers you can pursue with your respective degree. Bond encouraged me to step outside my comfort zone multiple times and I’m eternally grateful for the people that I’ve met along the way.

I haven’t had the privilege of studying at other universities; however, my friends have stated that the classes are too large to be able to promptly ask for assistance or ask relative questions; that is why I appreciate how exclusive Bond is. I could ask my lecturer/tutor for help at a moment’s notice (when available), and my tutorial classes consisted of no more than 10 people, so discussions and questions during these classes were so beneficial.

I would confidently recommend Bond 100%, and I would definitely study here again if I ever wanted a Postgraduate, PhD, or another Bachelor. The experience I took away from Bond was invaluable; I couldn’t have chosen a better place to study. Anyone who asks for my assistance on which University to study at, always gets my recommendation to Bond, I even convinced my cousin to study at Bond, and loved every minute of it!" Show less

"Bond is vibrant, inclusive, evolving, supportive. It prepares you so well for life out of further education and helps you reach the goals you want to achieve. The accelerated course drew me in. I wanted to get my degree done and get out into the workforce earlier. Show more

"Bond is vibrant, inclusive, evolving, supportive. It prepares you so well for life out of further education and helps you reach the goals you want to achieve. The accelerated course drew me in. I wanted to get my degree done and get out into the workforce earlier.

One of the highlights of Bond for me is the learning environment - being able to be one on one with your tutors and lecturers, knowing they’re always there to help. The facilities are amazing. Support from fellow students, tutors and lecturers is out of this world. Good, warm feel. The accelerated programs set Bond apart from any other standard semester university.

In the future, I hope to be working in either education or sport therapy and counselling. To reach my goals I need to continue to work hard at my degree and get involved in as much work experience between now and then as possible." Show less

Key features

About the program

The Bachelor of Social Science program encompasses several disciplines including criminology, psychology, counselling and behaviour management. The program allows you to combine subjects to complete a degree whose title reflects a specialisation of studies in the social sciences area of the Faculty.

Mode

On Campus

Duration

6 semesters (2 years)

Starting semesters

January 2019

May 2019

September 2019

January 2020

May 2020

September 2020

Program type

Bachelors Degree

Study area

Social Sciences, Psychology and Counselling

Program code

HS-20007

CRICOS code

063082E

Credit for prior study

For more details on applying for credit, please contact the Student Business Centre: [email protected]

This degree will provide you with a basis for working in areas such as welfare, government departments, disability services or as disability officers or case workers, client support and advocacy as well as working with behavioural difficulties of children in educational settings.

Those students who choose a Behaviour Management focus will learn the framework and procedures for implementing functional analytical therapy with clients who have severe behavioural difficulties.

Students who choose a Criminology focus will gain the ability to understand a-typical behaviour patterns.

Those students who combine their studies with Psychology will be provided with the basis for understanding the presenting problems with clients in order to develop effective needs-based treatment programs.

Students who choose a Counselling focus will gain the ability to assess, diagnose and understand human behaviour as well as be able to apply ethical, legal and professional issues in counselling.

Teaching methodology

The below fees are based on an average per semester cost, fees may vary based on which subjects are selected and the number of subjects enrolled in for each semester:

2019 fees: $17,160 per semester (based on 4 subjects per semester)

2020 fees: $17,360 per semester (based on 4 subjects per semester)

When considering the fees associated with your studies, keep in mind that Bond’s accelerated schedule means you can finish your degree sooner and be out in the workforce up to a year earlier than if you went to another university.

This time saving also represents a substantial reduction in accommodation and living costs, plus a full year of extra earnings.

Employment experience verified by a statement of service from the employer stating the position title and length of service and a very brief statement on the tasks undertaken.

For more information on what is required please visit our how to apply page.

English language proficiency requirements

As tuition is delivered in English, all students will be required to provide documented evidence of the required level of proficiency in the English language. Read more detailed information on English language proficiency requirements for university study.

Credit for prior study

Subject credits may be awarded for previous studies. To apply for credits, you will need to submit academic transcripts including detailed subject outlines/course descriptions for each relevant subject and/or certified copies of testamurs to the Office of Future Students. Please refer to how to apply for credit for more information

About the major areas

There is an increasing demand in the mental health and education fields for professionals who specialise in evidence-based methods for assessing, understanding and remediating the behavioural and other difficulties of individuals who, through a pre-existing disorder, are challenged by the regular demands of day-to-day life.

Bond’s Behaviour Management discipline is designed in consultation with education and health care experts who have identified the need for a new approach to working with the full range of challenging behaviours that limit an individual’s capacity to learn the skills for a successful life.

Our program provides evidence-based frameworks which teach graduates the practical competencies for analysing severe behavioural difficulties and developing techniques for lasting change in the functioning of children, adolescents and adults. Working in Bond’s trademark small classes, students benefit from the extensive knowledge of our staff and the blending of academic theory, research findings and face-to-face practice.

Students in Behaviour Management are taught functional assessment models that apply to a range of client groups and disabilities. They learn methods for determining the causes of difficult behaviour as well as frameworks for developing needs-based interventions to assist individuals to work towards positive behaviour change.

Career areas

Case Management

Clinical Behaviour Management

Community Services

Education (after completion of a teaching qualification at an institution other than Bond)

Counselling is a person-centred process designed to help clients or patients who are distressed, anxious, depressed or otherwise unhappy with their lives, relationships, or some aspect of their performance.

Students are taught evidence-based methods for building rapport with their clients and understanding the factors which cause those clients concern in their day-to-day lives. They are also taught a range of therapy strategies to guide future clients towards achieving their life goals and addressing the issues which cause them distress or unhappiness.

Career areas

Depending on the courses and pathway chosen, graduates could expect to find employment in areas such as:

Criminology is the scientific study of offences, offenders and victims of crime, drawing upon disciplines such as psychology, philosophy, sociology, political science and law. While largely an applied social science with an emphasis on practical application, criminology is underpinned by a strong theoretical base and body of scientific research. Criminology involves the study of crime patterns but also analysis of the operations of the criminal justice system - its policies, programs, police, courts and prisons.

Criminology at Bond strives to produce individuals who can think logically, conduct robust research, communicate effectively and thoroughly analyse criminal cases. These attributes are cultivated through specifically designed subjects, expert staff and Bond’s world class facilities, creating an engaging and effective learning environment.

Bond Criminology staff actively organise events that enhance the learning experience of students, such as annual seminars. These seminars explore themes such as criminal profiling, case reconstruction and victimology. The seminars are presented by experts in their field and provide a mix of practical and theoretical knowledge, applied to real cases. These seminars attract students and professionals from around the country, providing excellent networking opportunities for our students.

Career areas

Depending on the courses and pathway chosen, graduates may find employment in areas such as:

Psychology is an exciting and diverse field of study dedicated to understanding, describing, predicting and controlling the causes of behaviour and thought. This program provides a scientific grounding in the study of normal psychological processes such as perception, memory, learning, motivation, psychobiology, personality, emotion, developmental psychology and social relationships, as well as in abnormal psychology.

Our psychology staff are known for their expertise and enthusiasm for education and training, and our small class sizes and interactive teaching methods enable students to optimise their learning because they receive a high level of personal tuition and support. Our psychology academics are also recognised nationally and internationally for research. Our research activities cover a range of areas including clinical forensic and organisational psychology, personality, addiction, social psychology, developmental psychology, health psychology, learning and human cognition.

Career outcomes

The field of psychology is an applied discipline that underpins many occupations and vocational areas. This degree qualifies students for employment in professional areas such as counselling and various functions associated with human resources. It serves as building block for future studies where you are able to pursue careers in the professional practice of psychology including clinical, organisational or forensic psychology, counselling, health and community psychology, and other areas.

Dependent upon the exit point and the specialist area of study, graduates are employed as psychotherapists or counsellors, advisers to organisations, industry and governments on personnel matters, they engage in advertising and marketing activities, they advise the Courts on forensic and criminal matters, they administer personality and ability test, and they can engage in teaching and research.